Chemical Analysis of Stainless Steel

Fee: Two Quarters: $450

• About the Program
• Why Should Your Laboratory Participate?
• ASTM Standards Used in the Program
• Program Schedule & Fee Information
• About ASTM International Committee E01
• Program Registration Form

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

Over 45 laboratories participated in the 2008 internationally recognized Chemical Analysis of Stainless Steel Program. Basic elements to be determined by participants include carbon, manganese, phosphorus, sulfur, silicon, copper, nickel, chromium, molybdenum, aluminum, and tin. Additional elements are included in the program from time to time. The Brammer Standard Company provides test samples for the 2009 program. The samples provided are homogeneity tested to ensure that like samples are distributed to all participants. When oxygen and nitrogen are tested a separate thin disc is provided.

ASTM's Proficiency Testing Programs provide participating laboratories with a statistical quality assurance (SQA) tool for improving and maintaining performance with respect to interlaboratory precision.

The program provides participants with two test samples for each test cycle, electronic data report forms to record test data, and instructions for conducting the tests. Laboratories are instructed to conduct the tests in their facilities using the ASTM methods cited in the program (or other methods used by the lab) and to record their test results on the data report form.

Each laboratory returns completed test data electronically to ASTM for use in generating statistical summary reports. ASTM handles all data on a strictly confidential basis with no disclosure of lab identity except for one's own laboratory. The reports contain all laboratory test data (coded), statistical analysis of test data, charts plotting test results versus lab code and other information.

The program includes lab participation worldwide.

WHY SHOULD YOUR LABORATORY PARTICIPATE

The program provides you with:

• The resources you need to satisfy proficiency testing elements of laboratory accreditation
• A useful quality control tool to monitor the strengths and weaknesses of laboratory performance
• Periodic comparison of test results and calculated statistical parameters with other in the metals analysis and analytical community worldwide
• A useful quality reference sample upon completion of testing

Statistical summary reports provided to you include:

• Each participating laboratory's test results (coded for confidentiality)
• Statistical analysis of test data
• Charts plotting test results versus laboratory code
• Other pertinent information

ASTM STANDARDS USED IN THE PROGRAM

• E327 Method for Optical Emission Spectrometric Analysis of Stainless Type 18-8 Steels By the Point-to-Plane Technique
• E353 Test Methods for Chemical Analysis of Stainless, Heat-Resisting, Maraging, and Other Similar Chromium-Nickel Iron Alloys
• E572 Test Methods for X-Ray Emission Spectrometric Analysis of Stainless Steel
• E1019 Test Methods Determination of Carbon, Sulfur, Nitrogen, and Oxygen in Steel and in Iron, Nickel, and Cobalt Alloys
• E1086 Method for Optical Emission Vacuum Spectrometric Analysis of Stainless Steel by the Point-to-Plane Excitation Technique

PROGRAM SCHEDULE & FEE INFORMATION

The program is conducted biannually with testing in April and October 2009. Samples, test instructions, and electronic data submittal forms are distributed during the beginning of each test month. Labs are given approximately five weeks to conduct tests and return data to ASTM. Final summary reports are electronically distributed to participants approximately 20-25 business days following the receipt deadline of test data.

Laboratories may register at any time during the year. Fees will be pro-rated for remainder of year.

For receipt of test samples provide street address, DO NOT provide Post Office Box Numbers

For more information contact Jamie Huffnagle at (610)832-9682, fax(610)832-9668

ABOUT ASTM INTERNATIONAL COMMITTEE E01

Committee E01 on Analytical Chemistry of Metals, Ores, and Related Materials, consisting of over 190 members and developer of over 140 standards, provides the technical direction for the program. Test information generated in the program is utilized by Committee E01 to determine if modifications to ASTM documents or new standards are warranted.